Ever found yourself spending a hefty $100 on just a handful of items during a routine grocery run? We get it – rising inflation can make grocery shopping a pain. But don’t worry! In this blog, we’ve got your back with practical tips that will help you save money on your next trip to the grocery store.

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1. Build Your Budget

If you want to make your money go further, it’s important to know how much you’re spending on groceries. Start by keeping track of how much you spend each time you go grocery shopping. This will help you figure out the average amount you spend on food. Once you have that average, you can set a limit for how much you want to spend each week or month.

If you want to get even more detailed, use your phone’s calculator to add up the cost of each item as you put them in your cart, rounding up to the nearest dollar. It might take a bit more effort, but it helps you see where your money is going and makes it easier to resist buying things on a whim, like those expensive chocolate bars.

2. Be Price Savvy

In today’s environment, casual shopping just doesn’t cut it. It’s crucial to actively evaluate the prices of items you frequently purchase.

With apps like Flipp, Flyerify, and Smartcanucks, you can start price matching today. Price matching is when a store promises to match or beat a competitor’s price for the same product, ensuring that customers get the best deal available. Not every store in Canada takes part in this, but many grocery stores do. These apps streamline your shopping experience by providing access to local flyers, allowing you to compare prices, create organized shopping lists, and even find the best deals on specific items. So, if you see a lower price at another store, use the app to prove it and ask an employee.

A person price matching in a grocery store. — Credit: Viki Mohamad

Take advantage of these tools to make informed decisions and ensure you’re getting the most value for your money.

3. Consider a Points Program or Membership

Another valuable tip is to consider obtaining a membership or points card from your preferred grocery store. These cards often come with exclusive discounts, reward points, or member-only deals, providing an additional avenue for saving money. By using these membership programs, you can accumulate points over time and redeem them for discounts or even get items in exchange for points. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your savings on regular grocery shopping in the long run.

4. Try Cheaper Brands and Sale Items

Instead of always buying the well-known and popular brands, consider trying the store’s brands for cheaper options. You can save a lot of money, especially when the brand doesn’t really affect the taste or quality, like with spices, baking ingredients, salads, snacks, and more.

Keep an eye out for items on sale to maximize your savings. Many stores offer discounts on various products, providing an opportunity to snag your favourite items at a lower cost. Make it a habit to check out sales and promotions to stretch your budget even further.

Photo of groceries. — Credit: Maria Lin Kim

Remember, a little strategic planning and awareness can go a long way in ensuring that your grocery trips are not only cost-effective but also enjoyable. Happy and budget-friendly grocery shopping!